Amended planning consent for the public realm works in Colquhoun Square in Helensburgh has been approved.

A referendum was held in June, whereupon the original plans were amended.

Pricing is due in January 2013 and the contract will be awarded in early March.

Work is expected to start in April next year and be completed mid-summer 2014.

The work is expected to be completed in four phases:

Phase 1a - West Clyde Street April - August 2013

Phase 1b - The Esplanade April - October 2013 and February - June 2014


Phase 2 - Colquhoun Square August - November 2013 and January 2014

Phase 3 - Colquhoun Street North December 2013 - January 2014 and

East Princes Street January - February 2014

Phase 4 - Sinclair Street March 2014 - June 2014

Chair of the Helensburgh CHORD project board, Councillor James Robb, said: "This is another positive step in delivering the promised improvements to Helensburgh over the next 3-5 years under the programme of investment by the council.

"The Public Realm Improvement (CHORD) works are a £6.7m investment and will be supported by a business development plan. By the summer of 2014 Helensburgh will have improved roads, pavements and public spaces and be a better place to visit and do business."

Mr Robb added: "The final approved plans now take account of the wishes of the town and show that by listening and explaining it is possible to get the necessary consensus to make progress. It is now about delivering on this and other projects bringing a much needed economic boost to the town."